Foam earplugs are cheap and they do block noise. The problem is how they block it.
Why foam sounds muffled
Foam cuts high frequencies much more than low ones. Vocals, hi-hats and the detail in the mix disappear while the bass still comes through, so everything sounds dull and far away. Most people end up taking them out halfway through the set.
How hi-fi earplugs work
Hi-fi earplugs like HEARO use an acoustic filter that lowers the sound more evenly across frequencies. The music sounds like the same mix, just quieter. You can still hear the vocals, the drop and the friend talking next to you.
Which one should you use?
- Sleeping or a noisy flight: foam is fine.
- Concerts, clubs, festivals, DJing or rehearsals: hi-fi earplugs.
Not sure what it sounds like? Try our sound test with headphones.
